Aqua Blu Itinerary
Asmat Tribe and Raja Ampat Expedition13 days / 12 nights
About Aqua Blu
- Expertly designed interiors combining naval heritage and modern luxury
- Choice of itineraries exploring Indonesia’s most famous dive destinations
- Enjoy free use of top-of-the-line watersports equipment
- Sample a tempting menu of recipes crafted by a renowned international chef
Spread across five decks, Aqua Blu liveaboard is the archetypal modern explorer yacht with a rich naval heritage and stylish, five-star service. Refurbished in 2019 by an expert Dutch yacht designer, this vessel comes equipped with state-of-the-art relaxation and recreation facilities and impeccable design all-round - from the sumptuous suites to the expansive sun deck. Offering both week-long and 12-night itineraries throughout renowned dive destinations such as Komodo National Park, the Spice Islands and Raja Ampat, Aqua Blu is the ultimate setting for a luxurious dive expedition, venturing deep into Indonesia’s unspoiled sanctuaries to witness the beauty of nature.
Itinerary details
Length of trip 13 days / 12 nights
Number of dives TBA
Experience Open Water - Minimum 30 dives
Insurance Required
Highlights
- Dive reefs with exceptional biodiversity in the heart of the Coral Triangle
- Swim with whale sharks as they feed at the fishing platforms of Triton Bay
- Bathe in Momon's beautiful waterfall and trek in search of tree kangaroos
- Explore the Banda Sea's swim-throughs and deep walls
- Refreshing swim down the shimmering blue Kali Biru river
Day 1: Kaimana
Arrive to a warm welcome in Kaimana. There will be a private transfer to Grand Hotel Papua Kaimana to rest and freshen up before boarding Aqua Blu. Indulge in the signature Aqua Blu dining experience, designed by renowned chef Benjamin Cross. Settle into your suite and bid farewell to the harbor as we set sail.
Day 2: Triton Bay
Head out early in the morning for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with whale sharks in crystal-clear waters that make up Triton Bay. This region features sublime dive sites, home to a wealth of rare marine life and reefs decorated with some of the finest soft corals in the world. Over on land, the scenery consists of forest-covered limestone cliffs and prehistoric artwork high up on the rocky walls.
Day 3: Arafura Sea
Spend the day exploring the luxurious Aqua Blu and enjoy its variety of social spaces—a jacuzzi, spa and exercise area, sky lounge bar, and a sun deck offering panoramic views of the vast seas. Gain a deeper insight into Indonesian culture through onboard cooking demonstrations and presentations from our expert guides.
Day 4: Yuan Yufri
Arrive in the uncharted Asmat region—a remote part of West Papua that very few have ever had the opportunity to visit. On board private speedboats, head down the Lorentz River deep into the jungle to visit the village of Yuan Yufri. Enjoy a friendly welcome as the tribal members pass by in their handcrafted canoes. Spend the afternoon interacting with the locals, viewing their art, and learning about their daily lives. End the day with sundowners as we sail to Biwar Laut.
Day 5: Biwar Laut and Ouws
Today, we continue our exploration of the Asmat region and gain a deeper insight into the traditions of the locals. Enjoy a scenic skiff ride to the village of Biwar Laut, escorted by tribal members in their canoes. Upon arrival, witness the traditional Spirit Mask ceremony, which is conducted by the Asmat people to honor their ancestors. After lunch on Aqua Blu, head over to the nearby village of Ouws to witness the Mbis Pole Ceremony, which depicts how, after death, a soul manifests as a spirit in the image of a bird.
Day 6: Arafura Sea
Another day at sea offers the chance to relax, unwind, and share stories with your fellow explorers about the two incredible days spent in Asmat. Indulge in a cocktail-making session, a documentary screening, or speak to our knowledgeable guides and find out more about this remote region, which remains largely undocumented. Get yourself back in form for another day of adventure by indulging in a traditional Balinese massage at our onboard spa.
Day 7: Cape Papisol and Momon
Cape Papisol offers a panoramic view of the Bomberai Peninsula from its forested outback, which rises to over 1,300 meters. Starting from the magnificent white-sand beach, guests can trek upriver to a waterfall close to the Karawawi village. Later in the day, we head to Momon to swim in the plunge pool of a spectacular waterfall that thunders directly into the sea from the high forests above. Snorkeling and kayaking are available with chances to spot quirky hornbills along the jungle-fringed shoreline. Endemic forest kangaroos can occasionally be sighted in the wooded areas as well.
Day 8: Pulau Sabuda
Today, enjoy an island entirely to ourselves. The privately owned Pulau Sabuda makes the perfect setting for idyllic walks in nature, snorkeling from the shore, and kayaking in the nearby turquoise waters.
Day 9: Misool
The magnificent land and seascape of Misool are said to be home to some of the finest reefs on the planet. Guests can embark on an easy trek on small, sandy coves and landlocked lakes. There will also be options to swim, snorkel, or kayak in the numerous blue pools hosting sparkling coral reefs.
Day 10: One Thousand Temple
The next destination on our expedition itinerary is the magnificent One Thousand Temples karst island and lagoon complex. There is plenty to see and do at this astonishing location, both on land and sea. Look forward to incredible cave systems, mysterious jellyfish lakes, unforgettable tender trips through karst island passages, and ancient rock art.
Day 11: Penemu Island and Arborek Island
Wake up to the breathtaking beauty of Penemu Island, home to the renowned Melissa’s Garden. This iconic dive and snorkel site is surrounded by a hard coral garden, teeming with a vibrant array of marine life. In the afternoon, set out in search of manta rays near the charming island village of Arborek. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the village, immersing yourself in the daily rhythms of island life.
Day 12: Mayalibit Bay
Today, we explore the forested landscapes and mangroves of Mayalibit Bay. Rise before the sun to embark on a spectacular excursion on a tender and canoe, followed by a hike to spot the rare birds of paradise on Waigeo Island. Test your sense of adventure and follow it up with a refreshing swim down the shimmering blue Kali Biru river.
Day 13: Sorong
After a hearty breakfast, bid farewell to Aqua Blu and disembark in the port town of Sorong.
Sample itineraries are for guidance only. Actual itineraries may differ slightly due to factors such as weather, wildlife, logistics, and local regulations.
Transfer details
Departure
01:30pm
Kaimana
Kaimana Airport: KNG
Return
06:30am
Sorong
Sorong Airport: SOQ
Current availability and prices: https://www.zubludiving.com/itineraries/aqua-blu/itn-2505270159281-asmat-tribe-and-raja-ampat-expedition